In recent years, tragic incidents of school shootings have brought adolescent decision-making and risk-taking into the spotlight. Research has shown that in some cases, perpetrators of these violent acts have expressed feelings of exclusion, victimization, or a desire for revenge (Pemberton, 2019). Harmful beliefs—such as the notion that violent actions can restore control, assert dominance, or validate one’s self-worth—can drive adolescents to make catastrophic decisions that often prioritize personal validation or a misguided sense of justice over the safety and well-being of others (Lynn Mulvey et al., 2017). Understanding the underlying biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to these dangerous beliefs and behaviors is critical for developing effective interventions and preventive measures.
Karen Terry (Wed,) studied this question.